In a recent development that has sparked controversy and protests in Bangladesh, 267 candidates, many from the Hindu minority community, have been excluded from the second notification of the 43rd Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examination. This move has raised concerns about minority discrimination under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, which took power following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
On Wednesday, these excluded candidates staged a sit-in protest in front of the Secretariat, demanding answers and reinstatement. They question the rationale behind their exclusion, especially after receiving recommendations from the Public Service Commission (PSC). One candidate, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed dismay, “After four years of hard work and study, we were recommended by the PSC, but now find ourselves excluded from the job notification without any reason given by the Ministry of Public Administration.”
This exclusion has led to allegations that the current administration is targeting Hindus, perceived as supporters of the Bangladesh Awami League and pro-India sentiments. Critics argue this is a blatant violation of citizen and human rights, undermining the promise of a discrimination-free Bangladesh.
The Ministry of Public Administration canceled the initial notification dated October 15 and issued a new one on Monday, which excluded 168 candidates, bringing the total number of exclusions to 267 from the 2,163 originally recommended by the PSC for various cadre positions. Those not excluded are expected to join their jobs by January 15.
The aggrieved candidates are vocal about their plight, with one stating, “We were promised a discrimination-free Bangladesh, yet we face discrimination even before starting our jobs. We demand immediate inclusion in the job notification and an end to this discriminatory practice.”
The situation has fueled discussions on social justice and fair employment practices, with calls for transparency and accountability from the interim government in its handling of public sector recruitment, particularly concerning minority rights and representation in government jobs.
This unfolding scenario underscores the challenges of minority integration and the broader implications for democracy and human rights in Bangladesh under Yunus’s leadership.